Confession time: I am terrible when it comes to Christmas shopping. It’s not uncommon for me to still be wrapping presents on Christmas morning while everyone waits downstairs for me to “get dressed.” I don’t like pushing through crowds, I don’t like the pressure of finding the perfect gift, I don’t like the stress of spending when I don’t have that much to spend, and I always let time get away from me. Sometimes it will be a week before Christmas before I realize I only have a week to get everything together, and by that time my schedule is booked. I know I’m not the only one. The Saturday before Christmas is almost as scary, if not scarier, than “Black Friday.” Droves of people are out there shopping for last minute gifts. This scenario is even worse when you are pregnant. If you are expecting, I can give you two good reasons why you should forget about procrastinating this holiday season and start your shopping early: you are your baby.
Crowds
The last thing you need when you are pregnant is to throw yourself into a multitude of overeager shoppers. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been shoved and pushed by rude shoppers who are convinced I’m going to get the last decent shirt on the clearance rack. Shopping earlier in the season, however, can help you to completely avoid this set, allowing you to shop at your leisure without worrying about someone bumping into your belly or knocking you over. I’ve seen it happen!
Illness
Where there are thousands of people, there are hundreds of airborne illness floating around. Because your immune system is compromised when you are pregnant, it’s easy to come down with whatever flu or cold is circulating around. Public areas, especially malls, are breeding grounds for these germs, and it’s nearly impossible to coming into contact with at least one of them. When you begin shopping early, you even have time to order your gifts online and choose the cheapest, slowest shipping option.
Stress
Stress is not pregnancy’s best friend. What is more stressful than searching for Grandma’s perfect gift just days before it’s time to give it to her? Sit down over the next couple of weeks with a pad of paper and begin making a list. If you need help coming up with ideas, visit large online shopping sites like Amazon which often have gift ideas for every age and interest.
55 days until Christmas!
Pregnancy and the Holidays:
Holiday Gift Ideas for Pregnant Women